McGee Equine Clinic can provide insurance exams as needed. Please note that these are very specific examinations, and may take longer than a standard exam, so they need to be scheduled appropriately. Also, please have all of your required documents and the horse’s previous medical paperwork available at the time of the exam.
Equine insurance companies may require an insurance examination certificate signed by a veterinarian before a policy will be issued for a horse. Remember, this is a legal document, and we cannot simply complete the requested information based on prior knowledge of the horse. This certificate requires that determination of the animal’s health be made on the day of the examination. The exact requirements of the exam may depend upon the type of coverage being applied for; for example, breeding infertility policy would require a different type of exam than a simple mortality policy, for example.
A veterinarian cannot attest to the insurability of a horse. Your veterinarian can only respond to questions of which he or she has direct knowledge, reporting the medical facts to the best of his or her ability. He or she will be asked to positively identify the horse for which the application is being made. However, your equine practitioner has no role in determining the insurable value of a horse. That is a matter for the insurance underwriter and the owner to establish.
Regardless of the circumstances, never ask or expect your veterinarian to report a claim to the insurance company. This is your responsibility as the owner. The veterinarian may be asked to supply necessary medical documentation. Do not expect your equine veterinarian to be an expert with regards to your insurance policy. If you have questions regarding your policy, ask your insurance agent or the company rather than your veterinarian.
If there is something that your insurance company requires, make sure your veterinarian receives the request in writing. If a question or dispute should arise regarding a claim, it is a matter for you and your insurance company to resolve, as the insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurance company. Your veterinarian has no legal responsibility in the dispute.